The new 25,000-square-foot facility is expected to give the local economy a boost by creating 100 new jobs and generating an estimated $200,000 in new property taxes, according to a statement from the New Meadowlands Racetrack LLC, the company responsible for operating the facility.

"The off-track wagering facility is a positive development for Bayonne," Bayonne Mayor Mark A. Smith said in a press release. "That is why our administration has been so supportive of this project from the beginning."

"It's a good idea," said Dwayne Brown, 28, a 33rd Street resident, who occasionally gambles and says he'll place some bets at the facility. "It's going to bring in more money to Bayonne."

Many residents are hopeful Winners will provide some relief for people struggling to find work.

"It's more jobs to the community. We could use as many jobs as possible," said Erica Tooebo, 27, a Kennedy Boulevard resident.

Silver said 90 percent of the staff employed at the facility are Bayonne residents.

But city resident Joko Bestmen, 47, of 25th Street, was concerned about having a gambling facility so close to home.

"I'm afraid my kids will go gamble," said Bestmen, who has two teens in high school.